“checkpoint-friendly”

I got an email from my Dell rep, pushing Dell’s new line of checkpoint-friendly laptop bags.  They referenced a Computerworld article on TSA-approved bags.

Yes, folks, it’s the latest idiocy brought to you by your damn-near duly elected government.  So take off your shoes, buy approved bags for your computers, and grab your ankles; it’s time to fly!

Dell estimates that twelve thousand laptops are lost each week in airports.  The TSA doesn’t agree.  [I think they're both nuts.]   Apparently the definition of a checkpoint-friendly bag is one that can go through the scanner without removing the laptop.

But wait - it gets better!  The bag must contain a specific pull-out pocket for the laptop, which can be pulled-out and lays flat on the scanner.  And it can’t have any metal in it.  So now you can lose your laptop and its spiffy new bag!

Not sure how they’re going to verify your laptop is actually a laptop, but I won’t ask that question.

Welcome to Checkpoint Charlie.  Place all valuables in this basket.  Place laptops on the scanner, making sure they’re in the fully operational position.  Make sure to have your papers ready.